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Commissioner Fox referred to Mr. Roush's letter regarding the owners filing a lawsuit of <br />$25 million if the City continues to delay the hearing or otherwise interfere with the <br />conversion. She inquired if this was indicative of what is considered the appraised <br />value of the park. <br />Mr. Close replied that this number was derived from experts and used throughout the <br />State. He added that some cities have not followed State law, and the owners had to <br />exercise their rights to sue for damages resulting from delay. He noted that six months <br />ago, the City of Palm Springs wrote a check on the eve of the trial to the owner of a park <br />for $937,000 due to delay in a conversion. <br />Commissioner Fox stated that in the letter, the City Attorney has asked on numerous <br />occasions to provide a more concrete example of what the purchase price of the lots <br />would be. <br />Mr. Close replied that it would be the fair market: value of the property at the time of the <br />conversion, based upon an appraisal. <br />Commissioner Fox inquired why an appraisal was not done prior to sending out the <br />surveys to provide an average cost for the air space. <br />Mr. Close replied that this is not the process prescribed by State law. He noted that <br />they are also following the EI Dorado case which specifically states that pricing is not <br />within the jurisdiction of the City. He added that it is even more relevant in this situation <br />because nothing will happen for at least ten years. <br />Ms. Forbath noted that it would not be practical 'to advertise a price of a home today to <br />be sold ten years later. <br />Commissioner Fox stated that she felt some estimate would provide the residents with <br />the option to consider something in the future. <br />Ms. Forbath noted, as an example, that the selling price in Palm Springs is $140,000, <br />and in Morro Bay with ocean views is $220,000. She reiterated that not all residents will <br />want to buy and that those who want to continue' to rent will be able to do so. <br />Commissioner Olson referred to the $25 million lawsuit and inquired if the Planning <br />Commission's denial of the map would be considered a delay and would result in a <br />lawsuit against the City. <br />Mr. Close replied that they would appeal the denial to the City Council. <br />Commissioner Olson noted that Section 66427.5 contemplates that the legislative body <br />or advisory agency can either approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove the map, <br />which is the law. He inquired what basis would be used to sue the City. <br />EXCERPTS: PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, February 25, 2009 Page 13 of 19 <br />